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“I believe that the development of Air and Space Force leaders of integrity and character depends on not just telling students what to do in a classroom. It means leading and living by example, so they learn what it means to go above and beyond what is merely expected.”

For more than 15 years, Cynthia Smith, ’18, LSM ’22, has been an essential part of �鶹����’s Air and Space Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program. Since joining the Department of Aerospace Studies in 2009, she has dedicated her career to ensuring the success of both the program and its cadets, coordinating educational and student service initiatives across 10 Northeast Ohio universities and guiding more than 1,100 students toward commissioning as a second lieutenant in the United States Air Force.

“My dad served in WWII on a Navy battleship escort, the U.S.S. Stockdale, as a radioman. I grew up learning how proud he was to serve his country and others,” Cynthia said. “While I couldn’t join the service myself, it was always a dream of mine to serve those who provide service to our country, matching the core values that I grew up with. Integrity First, Service Before Self and Excellence in All We Do.”

As special assistant, Cynthia manages a portfolio that extends beyond the traditional expectations of her role. She oversees financial aid administration totaling more than $300,000 annually, manages course scheduling and facilitates access to Kent State resources for students from partner universities. She also serves as a vital liaison between Kent State and nine other institutions, ensuring that each cadet’s academic and military requirements are aligned.

Her influence extends far beyond administrative excellence. Cynthia advises three student organizations: The Fighting Flashes, The Arnold Air Society and the Silver Eagles Drill Team, where she encourages cadets' leadership, bonding and personal growth. She has also served as the Schwartz Building curator, coordinated high school scholarship programs and supported countless departmental events and initiatives.

“I believe that the development of Air and Space Force leaders of integrity and character depends on not just telling students what to do in a classroom,” she said. “It means leading and living by example, so they learn what it means to go above and beyond what is merely expected.”

Her service to Kent State has been recognized nationally. Cynthia has twice been named U.S. Air Force Civilian of the Year (2014 and 2020) and has received multiple Air Force ROTC University Employee of the Year honors. Prior to her work at Kent State, she managed multimillion-dollar operations at JCPenney, where she was honored as Merchandiser of the Year for her creativity and leadership. She has also been recognized as one of Ohio’s “winningest” coaches by the Ohio High School Athletic Association.

Cynthia is a three-time Kent State alumna, having earned an Associate of Science in 2017, Bachelor of Science in Public Relations, graduating Summa Cum Laude in 2018, and a Master of Science in Liberal Studies, graduating Summa Cum Laude in 2022.

“Since joining �鶹���� in 2009, Cynthia has significantly impacted the success of both the university and its students,” said her nominator Lt. Col. Gary L. Over, Kent State professor of aerospace studies and commander of Air Force ROTC Detachment 630. “Her ability to manage programs across 10 universities and guide more than 1,100 cadets toward commissioning as second lieutenants in the U.S. Air Force demonstrates her exceptional organizational skills and her deep commitment to student success.”

Reflecting on her career, Cynthia emphasizes the importance of service and mentorship. She believes her role is to support students in every way possible.

“The most rewarding part of mentoring the Air Force ROTC cadets of Detachment 630 has been knowing that they are now leading thousands of service members worldwide with courage, honesty and professionalism. Many of them still contact me from all over the world to check in, and I always enjoy hearing from them,” she said.

From the classroom to the drill field, committee meetings to student organizations, Cynthia always provides consistent, compassionate and excellent service. Her legacy is one of mentorship, leadership and unwavering support for Kent State and its students, a true model of what it means to be an Outstanding Staff Member.